Avill & Smart

[Nikki]

I have recently inherited an old piano from my late grand mother. It is in a fairly poor condition. She had it in a room with an open fire, and it had quite a thick layer of soot on it. Some of the keys do not work (they seem to stick) and the fabric on the back is ripped. It hase some very intricate oak and acorn patterns. I can't really afford to have it professionally repaired. Can anyone give me some advice on how I could give it some TLC?

Also, it seems to date back to around 1888, and has the following stamps on it; 'Anglo-Danish Exhibition - Opened by HRH The Prince and Princess of Wales - May 1888, In aid of the building of the British Home for the Incurables' and also; 'Awarded to Avill & Smart Limited, Finsbury E.C., Joseph Davis, Responsible Manager, Service Department.'

The piano has been in my family for many, many years, and was purchased by my great, grandfather from a local auction house (the auctioneers stamp is also on the piano). Can anyone give me any more info? I have done some searching myself, but not really any wiser!

Much appreciated.
Nikki

[Bill Kibby]

Avill & Smart were a fairly well-known London firm, the partnership began in 1865, and they received a medal at that 1888 exhibition, which was mentioned on their pianos for a long time afterwards. By 1891.they were Avill & Smart Ltd., so your piano is possibly before that date. Without being there, I can't say what work would be required, where in the world are you?

[Nikki]

Thanks for replying. Sorry - internet has been playing up all weekend!
We're in Berkshire.

[Bill Kibby]

Are you the same Nikki who sent me an email with an attachment, but didn't give a subject heading to say what it was about? I didn't dare open it.

[Nikki]

Hi.
No, I haven't sent any e-mails, I have only posted info on forum pages.
Nikki